…Anuradhapura…
Anuradhapura: The Cradle of Sri Lankan Civilization
Anuradhapura, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, stands as one of the most important and historically significant cities in the country. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often regarded as the cradle of Sri Lankan civilization, holding deep cultural, religious, and political importance. As the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura was the center of a flourishing civilization that lasted over a millennium, from the 4th century BCE until the 11th century CE.
Historical Background
The city of Anuradhapura is steeped in legends and history. It is said to have been founded by King Pandukabhaya around the 4th century BCE, though the region was inhabited long before that. Pandukabhaya, the first king to establish a formal capital in Sri Lanka, is credited with laying out the city with a comprehensive urban plan, complete with reservoirs, temples, and administrative buildings.
Anuradhapura grew in prominence as successive monarchs developed it into a thriving city. It remained the political, economic, and religious capital of Sri Lanka for nearly 1,300 years, until it was abandoned after repeated invasions from South India.
Buddhism in Anuradhapura
The city is particularly significant in the history of Buddhism. Anuradhapura became the center of Theravada Buddhism following the arrival of Arahat Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, in the 3rd century BCE. King Devanampiya Tissa, who ruled at that time, embraced Buddhism after meeting Mahinda, marking the beginning of Sri Lanka’s deep connection to the faith.
One of the most important symbols of this Buddhist heritage is the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree that was planted from a sapling brought from the original Bodhi tree in India, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The Sri Maha Bodhi has been continuously tended by monks for over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest historically documented trees in the world.
Key Sites in Anuradhapura
- Sri Maha Bodhi:
- As the heart of Anuradhapura’s religious significance, the Sri Maha Bodhi is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The tree is believed to have been planted in 288 BCE, and it continues to be a symbol of peace and spiritual strength in Sri Lanka.
- Ruwanwelisaya:
- This massive stupa, constructed by King Dutugamunu in the 2nd century BCE, stands as one of the most revered Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka. It was built to enshrine sacred relics of the Buddha and symbolizes the zenith of Anuradhapura’s religious and architectural achievements.
- Thuparamaya:
- Thuparamaya is considered the first Buddhist stupa built in Sri Lanka, commissioned by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE. It is said to enshrine a relic of the Buddha’s collarbone, making it a vital pilgrimage site.
- Jetavanaramaya:
- Another monumental stupa, Jetavanaramaya was constructed by King Mahasena in the 3rd century CE. It was once the tallest stupa in the world, standing over 120 meters high, and remains one of the largest brick structures ever built.
- Abhayagiri Monastery:
- One of the largest and most important monasteries in ancient Sri Lanka, the Abhayagiri Vihara complex was a center for both religious learning and political activity. It attracted monks and scholars from all over the Buddhist world.
- Isurumuniya:
- A rock temple famous for its intricate carvings, Isurumuniya is best known for the Isurumuniya Lovers, a beautiful sculpture that depicts a couple in a tender embrace, showcasing the artistic skill of the ancient Sri Lankans.
Engineering Marvels
Anuradhapura is not only renowned for its religious and cultural contributions but also for its engineering feats. The ancient Sinhalese developed an advanced system of irrigation to support agriculture in the dry northern plains. Massive reservoirs, or “wewas,” like the Tissa Wewa and Basawakkulama were built to store water, which was channeled through an extensive network of canals to irrigate rice fields and support the city’s growing population.
These reservoirs are still in use today, demonstrating the brilliance of ancient Sri Lankan hydraulic engineering. The irrigation systems of Anuradhapura were essential to its success as a self-sustaining civilization, allowing it to flourish for centuries.
Decline and Rediscovery
Anuradhapura’s long reign as the capital ended in the 11th century when it was repeatedly attacked by invaders from South India, particularly the Cholas. The city was eventually abandoned, and the capital was moved south to Polonnaruwa.
For centuries, Anuradhapura lay hidden beneath dense jungle, largely forgotten by the outside world. It was rediscovered by British explorers in the 19th century, and since then, extensive archaeological work has been undertaken to uncover and preserve its treasures.
Modern Anuradhapura
Today, Anuradhapura is both a bustling town and a pilgrimage destination. It is part of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle,” along with Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya. The ancient ruins, monasteries, and stupas continue to draw visitors from around the world, offering a window into the island’s rich past. The Sri Maha Bodhi remains a focal point for devout Buddhists, who visit the site to pay homage.
Conclusion
Anuradhapura is more than just an ancient city; it is a testament to the cultural and religious legacy of Sri Lanka. Its monumental stupas, sacred relics, and sophisticated urban planning are symbols of a glorious past. For modern Sri Lankans and Buddhists around the world, Anuradhapura remains a place of profound spiritual importance, connecting them to a history that stretches back over two millennia.